Saturday August 9, 2025

The Gilroy Rodeo is pleased to host this fun-filled event each year and invite your exceptional child to become cowpokes for the day at our Exceptional Kids Rodeo. This event will be limited to (30) local special needs children that are receiving education with an IEP, homeschool, or 504 plan between the ages of 4 and 18 years old.

The Gilroy Rodeo's Exceptional Kids Rodeo will offer our exceptional contestants a full hour of rodeo-like fun under our big tent! We hope this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many young participants and their families to enjoy some laid-back rodeo fun.

Check-in will begin at 11:45, where your child will receive an exceptional contestant goodie bag and back number. Once checked in, contestants will be paired up with a rodeo partner to help them navigate a series of thoughtfully designed rodeo-like activities such as roping, stick horse barrel racing, paint branding, an 8 second ride on a practice bucking barrel. Plus a petting zoo and more!

To apply for participation in the Exceptional Kids Rodeo, fill out the online application below.

All applications must be received by July 26, 2025. Space is limited to 30 contestants and may fill up before the deadline, so don’t delay.

 

Siblings without special needs are welcome to be spectators; however, they may not participate in events - no exceptions. Participation is limited to children with special needs. If you have more than one child with special needs, please complete a separate application for each child.

By early August, you will receive a confirmation packet with parking instructions, detailed times & schedules, etc.

Questions? Email Alyssa at events@gilroyrodeo.com

NOTE: If your child is afraid of animals, clowns, balloons and/or mascots, the EKR experience may not be a good fit for them.

We can't wait to share our love of rodeo with our local community!